Baird Condemns Massacre in Syria

News Release

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**July 13, 2012 -** Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:

“Canada is appalled by reports that more than 200 Syrians have been brutally murdered in the city of Tremseh near Hama. The use of artillery, tanks and helicopters by Syrian security forces, confirmed by the United Nations Supervision Mission in Syria, is evidence of the barbarity of this regime.

“The international community cannot stand by and allow these atrocities to continue.

“Canada urges all members of the UN Security Council to come to agreement on a resolution that will impose tough, binding economic sanctions against the regime.

“Those countries blocking any meaningful attempt at a resolution will be held accountable for their decisions.

“The senseless bloodshed in Syria is unconscionable. Those in a position to influence Syria must do their part to bring about an immediate end to the violence.

“Canada stands with the people of Syria in the face of this unspeakable horror.”